courage like Joseph

I met with my bishop on Sunday for my final mission interview before my interview with my stake president.  My bishop and I talked about Joseph Smith and the first vision. Before Joseph saw Heavenly Father and Jesus, he was overcome by a dark and scary spirit.

We talked about the strength and courage that Joseph had to have as he entered into that grove of trees.  My bishop told me I need to have that kind of courage.  This time when I'm preparing to get my call and after while I'm waiting to enter the MTC, Satan is going to be very tough on me.  Missionary work is one of the greatest and salvation bringing things in the plan.  Satan is going to try to stop that.

Today I definitely felt that.  The day has been one of the hardest days I've ever had---EVER.   I've been relying on the Lord today more than normal.  I know I wouldn't have gotten through today without that strength.  I'm trying to have the strength and courage that Joseph had to get through this darkness.

President Lebaron, my stake president from home, said at a youth conference I attended a couple years ago that each of us need to have our our sacred grove to get us through hard times.  Mine is home, my Neola.  I'm so happy I'm moving back.